Islamabad: Caretaker government has ordered measures to conserve energy, including closing all malls and markets at sunset to mitigate effects of energy crisis.

Sources privy to development told that implementation of current energy conservation plan will start from October 1 to February 15.

According to sources, administration of four provinces will implement decision, while draft is also being prepared for permanent legislation. Closure of markets at sunset would save 1,500MW of electricity, sources said.

Meanwhile, consultations have also been started with all chambers, federation and business communities to close markets early.

Similar announcement was also made by previous Shehbaz government regarding closure of markets by 8pm across country under 'energy conservation plan'.

Earlier, "NEC has approved an energy conservation plan under which shops and commercial centres would be closed by 8pm." However, no implementation was made on measures announced by previous government.

Inflated power bills triggered country-wide protests from Karachi to Khyber and protests in some parts of country turned violent. Protesting masses have been demanding that government should end provision of free electricity to notables and provide them relief as bills they have been receiving are more than their salaries.

Caretaker government also announced plans to launch crackdown across country on electricity theft in bid to reduce ballooning circular debt in power sector.

Measures were announced by caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi and Power Minister Energy Muhammad Ali during press conference.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 08 2023

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.